Chris James New Fire Chief

Fire Chief James speaking at the Augusta-Richmond County Committee for Good Government. 

2-14-2012

AUGUSTA, GA (Karyn Nixon) - City Administrator Fred Russell has named Interim Fire Chief Chris James as his recommendation as the next permanent fire chief of the Augusta Fire Department. Eight Augusta Commission members voted on January 30 to hire James as permanent chief of the Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department.

James, who has served on an interim basis since the September resignations of four in the department's upper ranks, was recommended over two other finalists by City Administrator Fred Russell.

“I have noticed that Chief James has worked hard over the last few months and in interviews members of my staff who sat in confirmed my observations,” states Fred Russell. “I am happy to recommend Chief James in the Fire Chief position.”

Adds Chief James, “It is an honor to be recommended to head this department.  We have the best and finest firefighters, both men and women, in the state and I truly believe the public will be served efficiently and effectively.”

The newest Fire Station is located at 1054 Alexander Drive.

Augusta Richmond County Commission 2-21-12

Chief James not only honor his men; one put him on fire, too.

In the first week of February a 30 year veteran of the fire department was off the job. Lieutenant Melvin Harris was accused of taking cash for fire inspections from businesses last year and not turning in the money. Lt. Harris was booked into the Richmond County jail facing a felony theft charge.

At least 10 businesses were impacted, according to news report.